Gem Tang

(Zebrasoma gemmatum)

Zebrasoma Tangs should be added to aquariums with plenty of swim room and rockwork for grazing and hiding. Tank size should be considered before purchasing as the adult zebrasoma Tangs can become quite large. Also known as surgeon fish because of the sharp spine at the base of their tail. This "scalpel" is used for protection, handle carefully as it is very sharp. They are considered reef safe but may pick at small, mobile and sessile invertebrates if not well fed. Provide a varied diet of marine meaty and algae based foods. Zebrasoma Tangs have been known to be aggressive towards similarly shaped Tangs.

The Gem Tang are also known as the Spotted Sailfin Tang. Not often seen in the aquarium trade. The Gem Tang is very beautiful with white dots covering its body, a yellow tail with a dark brown to black body. They can grow to almost 9".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 180 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

  • Care: CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietFlake FoodFlake Food DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightHighHigh